Three-pronged attack from Hyundai

The all-new Hyundai IONIQ will be the first vehicle ever available with electric, plug-in gasoline/electric hybrid or gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain options in a single body type.

As part of Hyundai Motor’s ambition to chart the direction of future mobility, it says IONIQ responds to rapidly changing customer lifestyles by breaking the mold for hybrid vehicles.

Woong-Chul Yang, head of Hyundai Motor R&D Center said this week the brand has a heritage of building innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles. This latest step advances the eco-friendly car lineup while making a little history.

It also offers the growing South Korean brand a legitimate contender in a segment dominated by Japanese rival Toyota with its successful Prius family of models.

Chad Heard, head of PR for Hyundai Canada, says IONIQ will make it to Canada but that timelines are yet to be determined.

“Korea will be significantly ahead of our market.”

“IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor’s vision to shift the automotive paradigm and future mobility,” Yang said. “IONIQ is the fruit of our efforts to become the leader in the global green car market.”

It is based on an exclusive new platform made specifically for the car’s multiple powertrain options.

Hyundai Motor has said it is committed to a future vehicle lineup comprising low- to zero-emission vehicles that also includes the first mass-produced hydrogen-fuelled vehicle, the Tucson Fuel Cell.

IONIQ will premiere in Korea in January followed by showings at the Geneva International Motor Show and the New York Auto Show in March. The name combines ion and unique.